Time and again architects have challenged the capabilities of aluminum composite material (ACM) panels to conform to their complex geometric designs. A recent example can be found in Tucker, Georgia where the material played an integral role in the nautically inspired renovation and expansion of the Northlake – Barbara Loar Library. The project’s makeover was completed under the direction of Richard Wittschiebe Hand Architects of Atlanta, GA.
The project involved the renovation of the existing 10,000 sq. ft. library and construction of a 5,000 sq. ft. addition. The inspiration for the new construction was a ship’s hull and was achieved by extending a prow towards the parking that directs pedestrians to the entrance and creates an interior children’s library space in the hull area.
Charged with manufacturing the composite panel system for the project was Altech Panel Systems of Cartersville, GA. The company fabricated the panels to demanding specifications at the jobsite using its “Total Station” production process. Panels were graphed three dimensionally to ensure their installation by Carros Metal Concepts of Winston, GA, would be smooth and trouble-free. The composite material utilized by Altech was ALPOLIC®, manufactured by Mitsubishi Plastics Composites America Inc. The project incorporates nearly 3,000 sq. ft. of ALPOLIC material in a “BBR” red color, and 405 sq. ft. of the material in an “SMX” Silver color.
In addition to creating the new children’s area, the renovation saw the functional spaces of the library reorganized to provide a larger reading and stack area, a larger children’s library, a new teen area and additional administration space.
The project’s general contractor was Hogan Construction of Norcross, GA.
About Mitsubishi Plastics Composites America
Mitsubishi Plastics Composites America, Inc is the global leader of aluminum and metal composite materials. With U.S. headquarters in Chesapeake, VA., Mitsubishi Plastics Composites America (MPCA) has been manufacturing the ALPOLIC® materials for architectural wall cladding and specialty applications markets since 1974. MPCA is truly a global presence, serving a worldwide customer base with products that offer innovation, style, and performance. To learn more, visit www.alpolic-usa.com.